Featherstone Rovers wanted Michael Monaghan

Ambitious Featherstone Rovers majority shareholder Feisal Nahaboo has revealed that they almost secured a deal to reverse Michael Monaghan’s decision to retire, and bring him to Featherstone for 2015.

Nahaboo spoke openly about the club’s future plans at a press conference, on Monday, and he confirmed a move for Monaghan was in the pipeline before falling through.

“We did look at Michael Monaghan, and we’d had meetings with him and his agent regarding a move,” Nahaboo said.

“We put a package to Michael that we thought he would take and come across. It would have been very good for this club, because we needed that marquee signing to look up to and rally around.

“He would have been assistant coach as well as a player, but it fell through. I don’t know whether that was because he hurt his calf or anything, but we know he won’t be coming this season.”

Nahaboo also confirmed that Andy Ellis – who had been linked with a move to Castleford – is staying put at the Rovers for next season, saying: “I know there have been some rumours about Andy and Cas, but let me tell you now – Andy is going nowhere.

“Featherstone are no longer a selling club.”

He also said there is a deal potentially in place with Jay Pitts to sign for next season onwards.